In a surprising turn of events, a recent blind taste test of supermarket olive oils has overturned conventional wisdom about price versus quality. Food experts were left stunned when several budget options outperformed premium brands in rigorous flavour tests.
The Taste Test That Changed Everything
Conducted by a panel of culinary experts, the comprehensive trial evaluated olive oils from major UK supermarkets based on aroma, flavour, texture and overall quality. The results challenge the common assumption that higher price always means better quality when it comes to this kitchen staple.
Unexpected Winners Emerge
Among the standout performers was a surprisingly affordable option from Aldi, which scored higher than oils costing three times as much. The panel praised its "perfect balance of fruitiness and peppery notes" and "authentic olive flavour".
Meanwhile, some premium brands disappointed, with experts noting "lacklustre flavour profiles" and "unpleasant aftertastes" in certain expensive varieties.
What Makes a Great Olive Oil?
The experts identified several key characteristics of quality olive oil:
- Fresh, grassy aroma - indicates proper harvesting and processing
- Peppery finish - a sign of high polyphenol content
- Balanced fruitiness - neither too mild nor overpowering
- Clean aftertaste - no rancid or musty notes
Shopping Smart for Olive Oil
The test revealed that savvy shoppers don't need to break the bank for quality. Experts recommend looking for:
- Dark glass bottles (protects from light damage)
- Harvest date (fresher is better)
- PDO certification (guarantees origin and quality standards)
With olive oil prices currently at record highs due to poor harvests in Mediterranean countries, these findings couldn't come at a better time for budget-conscious consumers.
